Security Increased in Major Cities for Easter Weekend

Apr 14, 2017

Cities in the United States and around the world are stepping up security surrounding Easter festivities following the news of church bombings in Egypt that killed 44 people and injured over 100 more during Palm Sunday services.

In New York City, police already had plans to boost security during Passover, Good Friday and Easter Sunday, but Chief of Patrol Terence Monahan said “in light of the bombings” they would be stepping up security even further.

New York City Mayor Bill de Blasio said that because the bombings in Egypt were inflicted on Coptic churches, NYC security forces would be on the lookout for copy cats and working to ensure the zones around churches are particularly cared for. He noted that other popular sites around the city will be under surveillance as well.

President Donald Trump will be flying down to Palm Beach to enjoy the Easter Weekend at what he likes to call the, “Winter White House.” Security in Palm Beach when the President is present is always increased, but the additional festivities of Easter will prove a challenge to local law enforcement.

Road closures near Marg-a-Lago have already been set in place as President Trump arrived a day before Good Friday. The First Family is expected to attend Easter service at the Episcopal Church of Bethesda-by-the-Sea. Secret Service agents have spent the week leading up to the service canvasing the grounds ahead of arrival.

The Secret Service and local law enforcement are expected to work together to ensure the President and the public’s safety over the weekend.

In other parts of the world, security will be increased at churches and synagogues in Lebanon, Albania, Singapore, France and London. Additional security will also be present in the towns of Tanta and Alexandria, Egypt where the two church bombings were detonated.